Smashburger Smash Fries Recipe

If you’ve ever visited Smashburger, you know their Smash Fries are a game-changer. These golden, crispy fries tossed in a savory blend of olive oil, rosemary, and garlic are the perfect sidekick to any burger. But what if you could recreate this magic at home?

Smashburger Smash Fries Recipe

Ingredients for Smash Fries

To make Smash Fries for 4 servings, you’ll need the following:

Potatoes: 2 pounds of russet potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes), ideal for their starchy texture that ensures crispy fries.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: ¼ cup for tossing and frying, adding richness and flavor.
Fresh Rosemary: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped, for that signature herbaceous aroma.
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced, for a punch of savory depth.
Kosher Salt: 1–2 teaspoons, to taste, for seasoning.
Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground, for a subtle kick.
Vegetable Oil: Enough for frying (about 4–6 cups, depending on your fryer or pot).
Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight heat, if desired.

You’ll also need a deep fryer or a large, heavy-bottomed pot, a slotted spoon, a large bowl, and paper towels for draining.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing and peeling the russet potatoes. If you prefer a rustic look, you can leave the skins on, but Smashburger’s fries are typically peeled. Cut the potatoes into ¼-inch thick fries using a sharp knife or a French fry cutter for uniformity.

Place the cut fries in a large bowl of cold water to remove excess starch, which helps achieve maximum crispiness. Soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have time.

2. Dry and Par-Cook the Fries

Drain the fries and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Excess moisture can cause oil to splatter and prevent crispiness. For the best texture, we’ll use a double-fry method. Heat your vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 325°F (165°C).

Working in batches, fry the potatoes for 4–5 minutes until they’re soft but not browned. This par-cooking step cooks the interior. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Let them cool for 10 minutes.

3. Create the Rosemary-Garlic Oil

While the fries cool, prepare the signature Smash Fries seasoning. In a small saucepan, heat ¼ cup of extra-virgin olive oil over low heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped rosemary, stirring for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and set aside. This infused oil is the secret to that Smashburger flavor.

4. Second Fry for Crispiness

Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the par-cooked fries again, in batches, for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Watch closely to avoid burning. Remove and drain on fresh paper towels.

5. Toss and Season

Transfer the hot fries to a large bowl. Drizzle the rosemary-garlic oil over the fries, tossing gently to coat evenly. Sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste. If you like a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Toss again to ensure the seasoning is well-distributed.

6. Serve Immediately

Serve the Smash Fries hot for the best texture and flavor. Pair them with your favorite burger, a dipping sauce like garlic aioli, or enjoy them on their own. The combination of crispy fries and aromatic rosemary-garlic oil is sure to impress!

Tips for Perfect Smash Fries

Choose the Right Potatoes: Russets are ideal for their high starch content, which yields a fluffy interior and crispy exterior. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or Yukon gold.
Double-Fry for Crispiness: The two-step frying process is key to achieving that perfect texture. The first fry cooks the potato, while the second fry crisps it up.
Don’t Overcrowd the Fryer: Frying in small batches ensures even cooking and prevents the oil temperature from dropping.
Fresh Herbs Matter: Fresh rosemary is non-negotiable for authentic flavor. Dried rosemary won’t deliver the same punch.
Customize It: Add grated Parmesan or truffle oil for a gourmet twist, or experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano.

Why Make Smash Fries at Home?

Recreating Smashburger’s Smash Fries at home is not only cost-effective but also allows you to customize the recipe to your taste. You control the seasoning, crispiness, and portion size. Plus, it’s a fun way to elevate your burger night or impress guests at a gathering.

The ingredients are simple, and the process, while requiring a bit of effort, is straightforward even for beginner cooks.

Pairing Suggestions

Smash Fries pair beautifully with a classic cheeseburger, a veggie burger, or even a grilled chicken sandwich. For a full Smashburger experience, whip up a quick burger sauce with mayo, ketchup, mustard, and pickles. A cold craft beer or a refreshing iced tea complements the savory, herbaceous fries perfectly.

Final Thoughts

This Smashburger Smash Fries recipe brings the restaurant’s iconic side dish to your kitchen with minimal fuss. The combination of crispy fries, fragrant rosemary, and garlicky olive oil is a crowd-pleaser that’s versatile enough for any occasion. With the double-fry method and a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a batch of fries that rival the original.

Smashburger Smash Fries Recipe